Life moves fast, and sometimes, so do financial goals and targets. One minute, you may be spending money, and the next, you may be thinking of an ideal way to save money quickly to achieve your goal.
I understand this perfectly because just like you, I too have been in this position.
Saving to hit a financial target.
Saving to purchase a property
Saving to quit a job and go into blogging full-time.
Saving towards my emergency fund.
I have been through all of these and like you, I sought ways to quickly save up money.
So in this post, we will explore practical and realistic ways for women to save money quickly without feeling deprived.
Whether you are looking for short-term savings hacks or long-term strategies that will put you ahead and speed up your financial progress, these tips will help you take control of your money and reach your goals with confidence.
Track Your Spending
If you are serious about saving money fast, you should first track your spending. Many people don’t realize where their money goes until they start paying attention. To do this, review your bank statements and receipts to identify spending patterns.
Use a budgeting app, a spreadsheet, or even a simple notebook to log every purchase you make daily.
Categorize your expenses to see where you can cut back. For example, small daily purchases, subscriptions, or impulse buys that often add up quickly.
Once you get hold of and understand your spending habits, set realistic limits and adjust your budget to prioritize savings.
Cook at Home
Cooking at home is one of the fastest ways to save money because restaurant meals and takeout come at a price higher than the cost of making them at home. By preparing your food, you control ingredients, portions, and costs.
To even save more, focus on making meals from scratch instead of buying pre-packaged or pre-prepared foods. For example, instead of buying individual microwave oatmeal packs, purchase a large container of oats and customize it with your fruit and sweeteners.
To cut more expenses, you can adopt meal prepping. Meal prepping can further reduce expenses by lowering food waste and preventing impulse takeout orders. By cooking in batches and storing meals in portions, you can easily grab homemade food when you are busy.
Make Use of Free Services
Taking advantage of free services can significantly cut your costs without sacrificing quality. One of the best resources is your local library, which offers more than just books.
Many libraries provide free access to audiobooks, e-books, and even streaming services for movies and TV shows. Instead of purchasing new books which can cost you a lot depending on the number of books, you can borrow them for free or participate in book swaps with friends or community groups.
More than just books, libraries offer you access to educational courses, language learning apps, and even professional development resources. Some even lend out tools, musical instruments, or passes for museums and local attractions.
If you still prefer owning books, consider buying secondhand from places like ThriftBooks or local used bookstores to save money.
Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk is a great way to save money fast because larger quantities often come with a lower price per unit. Instead of purchasing small individually packaged items, buying bigger sizes or bulk packs reduces costs over time.
For example, a small jug of laundry detergent may cost $6 for 30 loads, while a larger jug costing $15 might cover 100 loads. This means the cost per load is lower, saving you money in the long run.
The same applies to non-perishable items like rice, pasta, canned goods, and toiletries. A single roll of toilet paper might cost $1, but buying a 24-pack for $20 brings the price down to about $0.83 per roll.
To maximize savings, focus on essentials you use regularly and have enough storage for.
Shop Secondhand
Shopping secondhand is a smart way to save money fast while still getting quality items. Many things like clothing, furniture, electronics, and baby gear can be found in excellent condition for a fraction of the retail price. Buying used items also means avoiding retail prices, and in many cases, you can find high-quality or even designer items at bargain prices.
If you are a mom with young children, secondhand shopping is a game-changer. Kids outgrow clothes and toys quickly, so buying gently used items from thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, or Buy Nothing groups can save you thousands of dollars over time. Many parents have found expensive baby gear, like Mamaroos and Nugget couches, for free or at steep discounts.
Electronics and furniture are also great secondhand purchases. Many people buy refurbished laptops, phones, and gaming consoles at significant savings.
Another item people often buy second-hand is furniture. These vintage or pre-loved furniture often come with better craftsmanship than modern mass-produced pieces and can be found at estate sales, antique shops, or online marketplaces.
If you are looking for where to shop second-hand, here are a few places:
- Thrift stores (Goodwill, Salvation Army, local thrift shops)
- Online marketplaces (Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, eBay)
- Buy Nothing groups (Local community exchanges for free items)
- Consignment stores (for clothing, furniture, and baby gear)
- Refurbished tech sites (Apple Refurbished Store, Best Buy Outlet, Gazelle)
Actually Save
Spending less is good but to save money fast, you need to establish a saving culture. Instead of simply spending less, you need to set aside a portion of your income and make it harder to access, ensuring it truly accumulates.
The best way to do this is by automating your savings. Set up an automatic transfer from your paycheck to a separate savings or retirement account the same day you get paid. This way, you prioritize saving first and learn to live on the remaining amount.
For extra discipline, consider using an account that is intentionally difficult to withdraw from. A high-yield savings account, a Certificate of Deposit (CD), or a savings account at a separate bank with no ATM card or online access can prevent impulse withdrawals.
The key here is to create friction between you and your savings, making it less tempting to dip into the funds.
Even if you can only start with small amounts such as $20 per paycheck, it adds up over time. Ideally, aim for 10% of your income, but any amount is a good start. The more consistently you save, the faster your money will grow, especially if it’s in an interest-bearing account.
No Frivolous Item
Avoiding frivolous purchases is a fast way to save money because small, unnecessary expenses add up quickly.
Frivolous items are things you don’t truly need but buy out of impulse or habit. This could be upgrading to the latest phone every year when your current one works fine, buying trendy gadgets you rarely use, or spending on daily coffee runs instead of making it at home.
One of the biggest areas where people overspend is food. Instead of frequent takeout or dining out, meal prepping can save hundreds of dollars each month. For example, spending $10 on lunch every workday adds up to $200 per month, while preparing meals at home can cut that cost significantly.
The key is to identify where your money goes and question if each purchase is necessary. Before buying something, ask yourself: Do I need this, or do I just want it? Cutting out unnecessary spending helps you save money faster and focus on things that truly matter.
Cancel Subscriptions You Don’t Use
We are in an era of Software-as-a-Service and the majority of the stuff we enjoy are subscription-based. Some of which we totally forget about sometimes or we hold on tightly to even when we rarely use them.
Many people sign up for streaming services, gym memberships, magazine subscriptions, or app subscriptions and forget about them, leading to wasted money each month. If you are one of those people, one thing you should understand is that even small monthly charges add up like paying $10 to $15 for multiple services could mean spending hundreds of dollars a year on things you barely use.
Here are some practical ways to go about this:
- Review Your Bank Statements: Check your transactions to find recurring charges. You may discover subscriptions you forgot about.
- List and Prioritize: Identify which services you use and which ones you can live without. If you’re subscribed to multiple streaming platforms, pick one and cancel the rest.
- Use Subscription Trackers: Apps like Rocket Money, or Trim help track and cancel unwanted subscriptions.
- Cancel Directly: Visit the service’s website or app to cancel. Some companies make it tricky, so be persistent.
- Switch to Free Alternatives: Instead of paid apps, look for free versions or library resources for books, movies, and audiobooks.
Repair Stuff Yourself
Many household repairs can be done with basic tools and a little research, avoiding costly service fees. Hiring professionals for minor issues often leads to you incurring unnecessary expenses when the solution could be simple and affordable.
Common household items like appliances, electronics, and furniture can often be repaired at home by following step-by-step tutorials from YouTube or websites like RepairClinic.com. For example, a broken dryer might only need a small part replaced for a fraction of the cost of hiring a technician or buying a new one. Replacing a phone screen or repairing a computer with affordable spare parts can also save hundreds of dollars.
Before calling for help, take time to research the issue and assess whether it’s something you can fix yourself. Many repairs require minimal skills, and with the right instructions, you can extend the life of your items while keeping more money in your pocket.
Energy Expense Hack
People unknowingly waste electricity on things they aren’t actively using, leading to higher utility bills. Small changes in energy habits can result in significant savings over time.
One of the easiest ways to cut costs is by turning off lights and ceiling fans in empty rooms. Fans create a cooling effect when you’re in the room, but they don’t actually lower the temperature, so leaving them on when no one is around wastes energy.
Similarly, using smart power strips can help by cutting power to devices like cable boxes and gaming consoles when the TV is off, preventing unnecessary electricity use.
If you are looking to save even more on your electricity bills, consider investing in LED light bulbs, which use far less energy than traditional bulbs, and unplugging small appliances when not in use. Over time, these simple adjustments can lead to noticeable reductions in energy bills while requiring little effort.
Ask for Coupon
Whether shopping in-store or online, simply inquiring about promotions can often result in unexpected savings. Many businesses have unadvertised discounts, employee specials, or online codes that they don’t always promote unless asked.
For in-store purchases, always ask, “Are there any current promotions or coupons I can use?” Restaurants, retail stores, and even tourist attractions often have discounts available. A quick question at checkout could lead to savings, whether it’s 5% off, a price match, or an unpublished deal.
For online shopping, searching for coupon codes before checking out can also help. Many websites offer promotional discounts, and tools like Honey or RetailMeNot can automatically find and apply them. Some retailers even provide discounts through live chat if you ask.
By making it a habit to check for deals before making a purchase, you can consistently save money with little effort.
Create a Budget and Stick to it
A budget helps track where your money goes, ensuring you spend wisely and cut unnecessary expenses. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to overspend on things that don’t align with your financial goals.
When you budget, you decide how much goes toward essentials like rent, groceries, and transportation while limiting non-essential spending. For example, if you realize you’re spending $200 a month on takeout, you can reduce it to $50 and save $150 instantly.
Budgeting also ensures saving is a priority. For example, using the 50/30/20 rule, you can allocate 50% of income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings. Automating savings right after receiving your paycheck helps build financial security.
Quit Addictive Habits
Many habits like smoking, drinking, vaping, or gambling are not only costly but also drain finances over time without providing essential value. Cutting back or quitting entirely can free up hundreds of dollars each month.
For example, a pack-a-day smoker spends around $8–$10 per pack (depending on location), adding up to $240–$300 per month—money that could go toward savings, debt repayment, or necessities. The same applies to alcohol. Regular nights out or even casual drinking at home can quickly add up.
Gambling is another major financial drain. Many people justify small bets, but losses accumulate over time, leading to significant financial struggles. Reducing or quitting gambling can prevent unnecessary losses and improve financial stability.
While some individuals may need cannabis for medical reasons, recreational use like other habits can become a recurring expense. If you need to save money fast, reevaluating these expenses and prioritizing financial well-being can make a huge impact on your savings.
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Avoid Going Out Too Often
Social activities like dining at restaurants, grabbing drinks, going to concerts, or even frequent coffee runs can add up significantly over time. While going out is enjoyable and a good way to unwind from the stress of the day, it is also one of the biggest drains on a budget.
For example, if you go out to eat three times a week and spend $25 per meal, that is $300 per month just on dining. Cutting back to once a week could save $200+ instantly.
The same goes for nightlife. If drinks at a bar cost $10 to $15 each, a night out with friends could easily reach $50 to $100. Reducing these outings or opting for at-home gatherings can save hundreds while still allowing for social connections.
If you are an outdoor lover and are keen on going out, finding free or low-cost activities like hosting game nights, hiking, or attending community events can help you maintain a fun social life without having to dip into your savings.
Avoid Buying Name Brand Items
Many generic or store-brand products are made with the same ingredients as their name-brand counterparts but cost significantly less.
For example, a box of name-brand cereal might cost $5, while the store-brand version costs $3. Over time, these small savings add up. The same applies to household essentials like cleaning supplies, medications, and pantry staples. A bottle of name-brand pain relievers might be $8, while the generic version with the same active ingredients costs $4.
Comparing labels and testing store-brand products can lead to substantial savings without compromising quality.
Pay in cash
If you struggle with impulse buying, consider paying in cash for any purchase you make. Physically handing over cash feels more tangible than swiping a card, making you more aware of how much you are spending. Studies show that people tend to spend less when using cash because they experience a stronger emotional connection to their money.
For example, if you are eyeing a $100 pair of shoes, pulling out a $100 bill and handing it over feels more painful than simply tapping a card. This moment of hesitation can help you reconsider whether the purchase is truly necessary.
Using cash for in-person transactions also creates a natural spending limit. If you only bring $50 to the store, you physically cannot overspend. This method encourages mindful spending and helps break the habit of making unnecessary purchases.
Ask Around if You Need Something
Asking around before buying something can save you money and help you find what you need for free or at a lower cost. Many people have items they no longer use, sitting in their garage, attic, or storage, and would be happy to give them away or lend them out.
Simply letting friends, family, or coworkers know you are looking for something whether it is a kitchen appliance, desk, or baby stroller can lead to unexpected offers.
Online communities, especially local Buy Nothing groups on Facebook, are another great resource. These groups allow people to give away items they no longer need, and you can also request things before purchasing them new. For example, if you need a large baking pan for a special occasion, someone in the group may have one they are happy to lend or give away.
Beyond social media, neighborhood apps like Nextdoor, local bulletin boards, and even workplace networks can connect you with free or affordable secondhand items. This approach not only saves money but also helps reduce waste by keeping perfectly good items in use rather than letting them sit unused or end up in landfills.
Take Care of Your Health
One underrated way you can save money fast is to take good care of your health. Sometimes while chasing making money and saving up money, we neglect the one gift we have; good health.
Taking care of your health helps you save money by reducing medical expenses and preventing costly treatments. Prioritizing exercise, a balanced diet, and regular check-ups can prevent illnesses that lead to expensive doctor visits, medications, or hospital stays.
By avoiding unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive drinking, and junk food, you also lower long-term healthcare costs. Engaging in simple habits like staying hydrated, managing stress, and getting enough sleep can improve overall well-being and reduce reliance on medication. Preventive care is always cheaper than treatment, making good health one of the fastest ways to save money in the long run.
Pack Your Lunch and Make Your Coffee
Packing your lunch and making your coffee can lead to significant savings over time. Buying lunch from a restaurant or cafeteria can cost $5 to $15 per meal, while a homemade lunch often costs $2 to $5. If you eat out five times a week, that is at least $25 – $75 spent, compared to when you bring food from home. This can save you over $2,000 per year.
Similarly, buying coffee daily for $3 to $5 adds up to $60 to $100 per month, whereas making it at home costs just cents per cup. These small changes quickly add up and help you save money fast.
Live Within Your Means
Living within your means helps you save money fast by preventing unnecessary debt and overspending. Avoid using credit cards or loans to buy non-essential items, as interest payments can quickly add up. Before making a purchase, ask yourself, “Do I need this?” or “Can I wait?”
Prioritizing your needs over wants ensures you spend only what you can afford. This also prevents financial strain and allows you to save more instead of paying off debts.
Accountability
With all the goals and new habits you have decided to adopt, it’s easy to slack off if you choose to do it alone.
Accountability is one measure that helps you stay disciplined and focused on your financial goals. Sharing your savings plan with a trusted friend, family member, or financial group can provide motivation and prevent impulse spending.
By tracking expenses, setting clear goals, and regularly reviewing your progress make it easier to stay on track. Some people use budgeting apps or financial planners for extra accountability. When you have someone or something holding you responsible, you are less likely to make careless financial decisions, helping you save money more effectively and reach your goals faster.
